Work-related learning is a key part of all our degree and higher-level courses. Our academic staff work hard to build strong links with practitioners to ensure that your knowledge and technical abilities match industry requirements. Most of our staff themselves are industry experienced and will be able to provide you with invaluable advice and guidance.
Some of our courses have dedicated modules specifically aimed at supporting students to become self-employed, as that is a need of the sector, and many programmes embed various work-related learning activities to ensure you are equipped with the skills and knowledge required for future employment.
Becky O’Leary, Textiles Manager at MYReFactory, spoke to current fashion students about her role overseeing the company’s new sustainable textiles facility in Hull. There, items like high-vis jackets and Royal Mail bags are transformed into fashionable garments. Becky also collaborates with the NHS to turn surgical wraps into teddy bears for children’s wards and works with HMP Humber, where inmates repurpose Bentley car leather into bags. In Sri Lanka, MYReFactory supports rural women who they pay above minimum wage, to craft high-end heritage bags from reed rush and recycled leather.
Media Make-up students have previously secured work experience on both the Peaky Blinders and Dad’s Army set, as well as the CBBC, York Fashion Week, Dustfarm (multi award winning production house), University of York Media students: Independent films, York Photography Network Group, Mammoth Films, Backstage Makeovers, Rowntree Player theatrical productions, Dreamtime Creative and York Stage Company.
Media Make-up students create the screams at major York Halloween attraction
Fashion Design & Garment Technology student Mina spent a week with fashion designer Isabelle Randall. Inspired by Isabelle’s guest lecture, Mina took the initiative to reach out and secured a week-long experience, that not only sharpened her technical skills, but also gave her insight into the day-to-day realities of running a fashion business. From, hands-on learning in the studio to discovering productivity methods like the “Eat That Frog” technique, Mina’s time with Isabelle highlights the power of mentorship, initiative, and learning beyond the degree.
As part of the Enterprise Creation and Development module, 3D Creative Practice student Nicola Francombe collaborated with Friargate Meeting House and the York Quakers to create a ceramic installation celebrating the 400th anniversary of the Religious Society of Friends. Drawing on conversations with Quaker Elders and community members, she produced three large vessels symbolizing openness, decorated with imagery reflecting Quaker values and inscribed with words and reflections from the congregation. Displayed prominently in the foyer, the installation has become a lasting feature that engages visitors, raises awareness of Quakerism and encourages deeper connection with the Friargate community.
University Centre fashion students to exhibit at finest Georgian townhouse in England
Students from Graphic & Communication Design, Fashion Design & Garment Technology, and 3D Creative Practice visited Thin Ice Press, where they explored Risograph printing as part of their collaborative module, which delves into York’s past, present and future.
Other recent trips have included visits to the Première Vision Show in Paris, York Fashion Week and excursions to London, as well as various factories and museums, offering Graphics students rich insights into industry practices and creative inspiration.
Renowned leather specialist Andrew Bates brought over 40 years of industry experience to a hands-on masterclass with students from our Graphic & Communication Design, Fashion Design
& Garment Technology, and 3D Creative Practice courses. This unique session offered students an in-depth exploration of traditional leathercraft techniques, revealing the intricate artistry involved in working with leather. Alongside practical demonstrations, Andrew shared invaluable career advice and insider tips for building a successful future in the creative industries.
York School of Art degree students receive a masterclass in leather
Media Make-up students gained hands-on experience by assisting in the simulation of terror attacks at Leeds and York train stations, as well as a staged biking accident in Dalby Forest. These realistic training scenarios were developed in partnership with emergency services, Network Rail and Dalby Forest.
Media Make-up students assist Emergency Services with more vital anti-terrorism training
Media Make-up students help simulate terror attack in Leeds
BA Fashion degree student Emma designs headwear to help cancer patients deal with hair loss trauma
Students on the Film Production & Professional Practice degree completed an advertisement for international toy company Canal Toys’ relaunch of the ‘Pop Colour Camera, as part of their Photo Creator range. Students were tasked with developing a concept, presenting that concept to Canal Toys and then organising and running the shoot. Working with Canal allowed students to experience working with real world international clients, building their skills of developing a concept that will resonate with a given demographic. The final product was so well received, Canal Toys continued their collaboration with the students on two additional marketing campaigns: ‘So Slime’ and ‘Making Memories’. The three campaigns have so far gathered over 360,000 views online.
Recent live projects have showcased the creativity and community engagement of our students across multiple disciplines. Graphic & Communication Design students collaborated with York BID and the City of York Council’s Eco Team to bring colour and creativity to the floodgates along the River Ouse. They also partnered with local business Mr Chippy to reimagine and redesign his shopfront.
Film Production and Professional Practice is developed around facilitating local businesses. Multiple modules within the course are designed for students to provide video content for local businesses and their social media. Recent clients have included York Rescue Boat, York Breast Friends, York Fashion Week, York NHS, Spark, Baby Boy’s Burgers, Lebosi, Get Cycling, Roller Girl Gang, Live For Today, Bomb Squad, F. Bradley & Sons, Lincoln Lightfoot, Compass, Sore Thumb Retro Games and The Why Street.
Floodgates pose no barrier for Graphic & Communication Design degree students' creative talent
